3 New Junior Black Belts at D.E.

Defensive Edge Congratulates 3 New Junior Black Belts

Wakefield, MA (June 24, 2010) Three young students from the Defensive Edge Martial Arts Academy of Wakefield were recently awarded their Junior Black Belts, announced Rick Alford, Founder and Head Instructor of Defensive Edge.  The students are Joe Penta and Luke Hendriks from Wakefield and Cassie Haas from Lynnfield.

“This is a great achievement for each student. They have all been training with our school for over 6 years and this accomplishment demonstrates their hard work, commitment and perseverance. I am very proud of them,” said Alford.

To be awarded the Junior Black Belt, the students are tested on their knowledge and are required to teach a variety of techniques to demonstrate their understanding, communication skills and confidence in their abilities.  In addition, there is an intense sparring section of the test which requires the Junior Black Belt candidates to defend themselves from over 100 attacks from classmates in safely simulated, yet realistic self-protection moves and techniques including defense against training knives and guns (plastic for safety). In the final section of the test, the candidates spar with full force against the instructors who work to keep the students challenged without hurting them.

“This is an extremely demanding test, both mentally and physically.  These students walked away with a sense of pride, success, and confidence which is what our school is all about,” he explained.